Make a herb vinegar for cleaning

The beauty of a homemade vinegar spray is that it contains just two ingredients: the cleaning agent – in this case vinegar – and fresh or dried herbs. White vinegar not only has antimicrobial properties, it can eliminate mineral deposits from sinks and bathroom fixtures.

To make a herb vinegar, fill a jar with fresh or dried herbs, then fill to the top with white vinegar. Secure the lid tightly (make sure it’s a non-metal lid), label the jar, and place in a warm room out of direct sunlight for at least six weeks. Turn and gently shake the jar once a day. After six weeks, strain, then store in a cool, dark place.

This mixture can be used straight on grubby surfaces such as glass, showers, and toilets, but for any woodwork, paint finishes and the like, be sure to dilute with water up to 50 per cent.

You can use any herb or herbs you like. If you like the smell of lavender, use that; if you like citrus scents, try lemongrass, lemon thyme or lemon myrtle. Or use a mix of say thyme leaves and lavender flowers, and a few drops of rose geranium essential oil for a powerful, nicely scented solution. You can add essential oils to any of your herb vinegars.